What to Expect from a...

Nothing wrong with contacting the NMs. It makes them aware of you and shows your interest.

good luck in your job search.

btw, it probably would be best if you kept remarks such as "gee, you're old enough to be my mother!" to yourself during interviews.

I contacted a nurse manager when the computerized application process wouldn't let me apply because I don't have an RN license number yet. She returned my contact and I now have an interview (Thursday!!!).

In another case, I couldn't get HR to return calls, so I contacted the NM straight. That also resulted in an interview (and a job offer...but I didn't take the job).

In both cases, there was no upset or even a raised eyebrow due to my direct contact.

Don't hesitate to contact the nurse manager -she/he is the one who needs staff, not HR. I've gotten two good nursing jobs by going directly to the NMs. They are much more motivated to get you in for an inerview.

Just a thought from the other side of that fence-In the past year, I had a nurse call me one day directly to say she was interested in what we do (case management, a bit different than floor but same principles of HR here) and was very polite, asked if I had time to answer few questions about the job and department, etc. I did not mind at all, and short time after that when we had opening, when I ran across her app and recognized the name, she got to the top of the list because I knew she was genuinely interested, already had a great idea about her communication skills, work history, etc.

She is now on staff and doing a wonderful job! I certainly did not mind her being pro-active and showing genuine interest in what we do, where her career was going and where she could fit in best here.

best of luck!